Voices Elevated, Women Celebrated: Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors Inaugurated in Abuja

 By Genesis ogiri 

Abuja, Nigeria — A landmark moment in Nigeria’s gender advocacy space unfolded at the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, as influential women from across the nation were inaugurated as Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors, while outstanding female change-makers were honored with the Nigeria Most Notable Female Advocate Award.

The high-level ceremony, convened under the theme “From Empowerment to Action: Fostering Women’s Economic Resilience Against Gender Discrimination,” brought together a distinguished gathering of diplomats, policymakers, activists, development partners, and media representatives.

At the center of this historic initiative is Ambassador Kingsley Onuche, founder of the Girls and Women Speak Initiative, whose vision for the program was to move beyond rhetoric and highlight tangible efforts that enable women and girls to thrive economically, socially, and politically.

 “This event is a catalyst for transformation,” Ambassador Kingsley said in his keynote address. “We are not just giving titles—we are building platforms. These women represent the future of gender equity in Nigeria.”

The ceremony commenced with a vibrant Green Carpet reception at 10:00 AM, followed by the Red Carpet honors at 11:00 AM, showcasing the elegance and pride of female leadership. The formal inauguration witnessed the induction of new Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors, a distinguished cohort of women drawn from various sectors including governance, education, health, entrepreneurship, and civil society.

Each ambassador was decorated and presented with a certificate of recognition, symbolizing their new role as gender advocates and mentors in their respective communities.

The highlight of the day was the presentation of the Nigeria Most Notable Female Advocate Awards, honoring women who have demonstrated consistent excellence and advocacy in promoting women’s rights and inclusion. The honorees were selected through a rigorous evaluation process based on their contributions to community development, leadership, economic empowerment, and gender equity.

Among the awardees were female legislators, grassroots organizers, non-profit executives, health practitioners, and youth mentors—all of whom received standing ovations as their stories of resilience and impact were shared with the audience.

 “The women recognized today are not only leading change—they are living proof that resilience and innovation can overcome systemic discrimination,” said Dr. Halima Yusuf, a keynote speaker and gender development expert.

The event drew participation and commendations from representatives of United Nations agencies, the African Union Commission, diplomatic corps, and leading NGOs. Several foreign missions expressed interest in partnering with the Girls and Women Speak Initiative for future programs targeting rural development, education, and women-led enterprise.

Panel discussions throughout the day emphasized the urgent need for integrated policy reforms that prioritize economic access, legal protection, and leadership opportunities for women and girls.

 “Empowerment must go beyond workshops and awareness campaigns,” said one panelist. “It must translate into access to capital, political appointments, safety, and justice

The successful inauguration of the Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors and recognition of Nigeria’s most notable female advocates marked a turning point in the national conversation around gender equality. With Ambassador Kingsley and his team leading the charge, the initiative has set a bold precedent for how advocacy can be institutionalized into action and influence.

 “Today we didn't just host an event—we ignited a movement,” Kingsley declared.

As the curtains fell on an event marked by elegance, empowerment, and elevation, one message rang clear: Nigerian women are not waiting for change—they are becoming the change.

The inauguration of the Girls and Women Speak Ambassadors and the conferment of the Nigeria Most Notable Female Advocate Awards have not only celebrated women’s contributions to national development but have also signaled a renewed commitment to gender equity in policy and practice. Under the leadership of Ambassador Kingsley, this initiative has transcended ceremonial recognition, laying the groundwork for sustained advocacy, mentorship, and economic empowerment.

As stakeholders depart with renewed resolve and ambassadors step into their new roles, one truth stands firm: when women are empowered to speak, lead, and act, nations move forward. This event was not the end of a campaign—it is the beginning of a bold, transformative movement.

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